Amid a dramatic increase in bear encounters, Japanese officials are turning to the innovative 'Monster Wolf' robot, designed by Ohta Seiki in Hokkaido. This solar-powered scarecrow resembles a werewolf and utilizes motion sensors, flashing red LED lights, and over 50 intimidating sounds to ward off bears. The company has reported receiving around 50 orders for the device, significantly higher than their usual annual total. The rising demand comes as Japan experienced a record 13 fatalities from bear attacks in 2025, with over 200 injuries reported and bear sightings exceeding 50,000 nationwide. The robots are particularly popular among farmers and operators of golf courses, providing a quick and effective solution with low maintenance costs. Ohta Seiki's president, Yuji Ohta, noted that the robots are handmade, leading to a production backlog of two to three months for new orders. The heightened awareness of bear safety measures has further fueled interest in the 'Monster Wolf' as a reliable defense against wildlife damage.